Town of Stouffville Invites Public to Shape the 2026 Budget

02 July 2025

The Town of Stouffville is inviting all residents and local stakeholders to actively participate in shaping the 2026 municipal budget through a multi-stage public engagement campaign that prioritizes transparency, collaboration, and community impact. “Municipal budgets are more than numbers, they represent the services and spaces that impact our everyday lives,” said Mayor Iain Lovatt. “The 2026 Budget should reflect the values and aspirations of our community, and we are committed to listening and responding.” Residents are encouraged to take part in our online survey and join conversations with the budget team at local events:

  • Library Discovery Day – Saturday, July 5
  • Symphony in the Park – Friday, July 18
  • The Stouffville Market – Saturday, August 16

An interactive online budget tool will launch this summer to allow residents to explore trade-offs and help prioritize municipal services. In addition, Mayor Lovatt will host a town hall in September to further discuss budget priorities, answer questions, and engage directly with residents on key community needs.

In October 2023, the Province of Ontario granted Strong Mayor Powers to Stouffville’s Mayor in support of provincial housing and infrastructure priorities. These powers provide the Mayor with authority to propose the annual municipal budget and reorganize municipal departments. Under the Strong Mayor framework:

  • Council may propose amendments to the Mayor’s proposed budget
  • The Mayor may veto those amendments
  • Council can override a veto with a two-thirds majority vote

“While I have the authority to propose the budget under the Strong Mayor framework, community input remains essential,” said Mayor Lovatt. “This is still your budget, and we’re committed to listening.”

To access the survey, stay informed about key budget milestones, and learn more about the engagement process, visit townofws.ca/budget.

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